Johannesburg seen through the eyes of its first post-apartheid generation
This group of work aims to create new and different perspectives on how people think about Johannesburg. Young South Africans at the Afrika Cultural Centre made maps, drawings, collages and texts to illustrate the multiple ways they understand, navigate, and live in the city. Through the personal nature of their work, the exhibition creates a vision of modern Johannesburg that, in contrast to its frequently perceived hostility, is personable, engaging and, for many, a home.
The work is organized into six categories. For each category there is a background map, which visually organizes the theme. Several images and texts accompany each map to explicate and narrate them further.
In the City portrays a colorful urban space of pavements and informal characters. It takes on both the large scales of the metropolis and the small scales of the street. The city is seen as full and dynamic.
Road City emphasizes the presence of taxis, infrastructure, and commuting. The taxi's interior and exterior are rendered in relationship to the passengers and their landscapes. The asphalt road reappears throughout as a sign of urban space.
Rail City relates the train as an icon of transport for the city. The rail itself is a conduit separated from the landscape it moves through. As it stops at specific stations it emphasizes neighborhoods and their distinct characteristics.
Contrast City illustrates differences in places, such as the townships and the city center, but also differences in perspectives on urban themes, like city parks and social behaviors.
Concept City imagines ideas of success, integration, and beauty for the city. Is mapping or telling the story of the city ever possible? Abstractions, metaphors, and dreams are some of the ways we attempt to broadly understand Johannesburg.
Home City recreates elements of everyday neighborhoods and homes. Here, there is a space for oneself: either in a room or an outdoor yard, or in the representation of the home as a loved and safe place.
Coordinated by Anna Kostreva, Fulbright Scholar and Researcher
www.annakostreva.org
In collaboration with the Afrika Cultural Centre
www.afrikaculturalcentre.com
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